The Understudies delivers an uproarious and smart take on theatrical mishaps, delighting the audience with its quick wit and physical comedy. The premise—a cast struck by food poisoning—sets the stage for chaos, as the overlooked understudies, barely part of the production and spared from illness, are thrust into the spotlight at a Shakespeare Festival. Their unlikely rise to the challenge is both hilarious and heartfelt, highlighting the absurdities of backstage life; as does Mac’s amazing array of vivid shirts – ranging from ducks to dinosaurs – all worn with great panache by Nat Newman, one of the creative directors of the company. 

Liz Vassilacos brings Zoe to life as a driven performer eager to rescue the production by taking on every part herself. Her lively spirit pairs well with her vast memory for Shakespeare, while her friend Mac’s doubts add a touch of realism. Their comic interplay is highlighted when Mac’s struggle with her lines sparks even more laughs. The chaos escalates as the nervous stage manager, portrayed impeccably by Phoebe Aletras, offers help but ends up tossing the script aside when Mac seems clueless about the dialogue. 

The real charm of the piece comes from the contrasting attitudes of Zoe and Mac—Zoe’s boundless enthusiasm clashing with Mac’s laid-back approach to performing. Through a series of spirited debates, misunderstandings, and reluctant teamwork, the play explores the resilience and resourcefulness of those who are usually out of the spotlight. The result is a fast-paced, feel-good comedy which captures the chaos and magic of live theatre.